[Verse 1] We code the notification bell that rings Design the progress bar that slowly fills Build gamification, hearts and likes and things Then check our phones to get our dopamine thrills The variable ratio schedule that we write Is the same one keeping us awake at night [Chorus] We're builders of the dopamine machine Creating what controls us on the screen Variable ratios, intermittent rewards We fall for our own psychological cords The architect becomes the prisoner inside The engagement economy we helped design [Verse 2] A cardiologist can still get heart disease Knowledge doesn't make you immune to pain When you say you're checking LinkedIn just to network please Apply some clinical skepticism to that claim The third time logging in feels just like that third drink There's more going on than you might think [Chorus] We're builders of the dopamine machine Creating what controls us on the screen Variable ratios, intermittent rewards We fall for our own psychological cords The architect becomes the prisoner inside The engagement economy we helped design [Bridge] It's not ironic, it's inevitable When you understand the system but you're still susceptible The red badge notification calls your name You built the very mechanism of your shame Structurally we're trapped inside our creation Dopamine delivery is our occupation [Chorus] We're builders of the dopamine machine Creating what controls us on the screen Variable ratios, intermittent rewards We fall for our own psychological cords The architect becomes the prisoner inside The engagement economy we helped design [Outro] Recognition is the first step to break free From the dopamine delivery system spree We built the cage but we can find the key To healthier technology
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